Since the Legal Network was founded in 1992, we have steadfastly promoted the human rights of people living with and affected by HIV and AIDS, and other populations disproportionately affected by HIV, punitive laws and policies, and criminalization, in Canada and around the world. The scope of our work has grown over the past 30 years, and the way that we do this critical work continues to evolve as we respond to dynamic and ever-changing circumstances faced by people the world over.
When we mark our 30th anniversary at the end of this year, we will do so with a new strategic plan to guide us in our efforts to ensure fundamental human rights for all — and a renewed commitment to the work we love.
Introducing Rights Within Reach: Strategic Plan 2022-2027
Beginning in 2021, we undertook a comprehensive assessment process, involving key stakeholders, current and former staff, and board members, to identify our strengths and our areas for growth. We looked at the areas where our work has changed laws, policies, and lives thus far, and considered what we need to do to realize our goals.
The result is Rights Within Reach, an ambitious plan that builds upon our momentum in key policy areas. It outlines ways in which we’ll forge new partnerships and deepen existing ones to further our commitment to reconciliation and centering Indigenous perspectives, combating anti-Black and other forms of racism, and employing an intersectional feminist lens throughout our work. Finally, it considers how the Legal Network must prioritize organizational development to meet its audacious — but reachable — goals.
Rights Within Reach is now available on our website. In it, you will see how we intend to create a more just society where everyone can fully enjoy their rights. We have already taken many of the necessary steps and are seeing promising developments on so many fronts, from ending HIV criminalization to realizing LGBTQ+ rights in the Caribbean. We are committed to making human rights for all a reality over the next five years. Please join us!
In Memory of Alexandra de Kiewit
Rights Within Reach is lovingly dedicated to the memory of our Board member and long-time friend Alexandra de Kiewit, who sadly passed away this month.
Alexandra was passionate about decriminalization in all its forms and was a fierce advocate for people who use drugs, sex workers, and people living with HIV, among others. We will miss her genuine warmth and her smile along with her strategic mind and her fearlessness. We are so grateful that she chose to share her expertise with us and we will be guided by her memory for years to come.
In solidarity,
HIV Legal Network